Cheryl Stout

Snake wrapped around anatomic heart: Every element has multiple meanings, but overall it’s an expression of control over my narrative. By placing a reptile (which I love to work with) around a heart, in Garden of Eden-style imagery (shoutout to an intensely religious upbringing), this tattoo represents acceptance of unmet familial expectations, acknowledgment of my tendency to guard my emotions, preservation of my own wildness, and my choice to prioritize an impactful career over tradition

My tattoos tell the stories of the animals and people who’ve had the greatest impact on me. My favorites would tell you the story of an alligator found in a Brooklyn lake who had a bathtub plug in her stomach, likely from being someone’s pet. A kiwi bird who no one believed could be helped. A bison at the Bronx Zoo who I raised from the day she was born, and who now bears my name. My ink would tell you what inspires me.

Recently I’ve been getting involved in more conservation work (e.g. dehorning rhinos in Africa to keep them safe from poachers). I’d use the money to pay for 2 courses in South Africa that teach the skills I need to make a real difference. For example, I have plenty of experience darting animals for anesthesia, but NOT from a helicopter. File that under the “need to learn” column. This $ would change the trajectory of my career & allow me to do what inspires me most